Kaleidoscope of colors
August 28, 2024
Get ready for a cultural feast. For two days in September, Festival of India will bring a showcase of Indian dance, food and art to uptown and Ballantyne.
by Sharon Smith | photographs by Olly Yung
A few years ago, my children’s eyes immediately lit up as we happened upon an electrifying and beautiful street scene in uptown during a big festival weekend. We were like moths to a flame — the flame being dancers in brightly colored traditional Indian garb escorting a man and woman on horseback. The horses were also adorned with golden bells and vibrant silks for the celebration.
More passers-by stopped in their tracks. The joy was infectious. Our first taste of Festival of India was delightful.
Festival organizers know something about captivating a crowd. Since 1994, the India Association of Charlotte has hosted this memorable, immersive cultural experience. In recent years, it’s found a home under CIAF, the highly successful international arts festival that brings together local and global artists for two weeks each fall.
This year, each day and location offers something different, with some overlap. Performances at Belk Theater on Saturday will feature Bollywood glamour and classical Indian dances. Look for a mini-bazaar with arts and crafts plus cuisine along Tryon Street. The next day in Ballantyne will also feature traditional Indian foods; sari, jewelry and craft vendors; plus activities around Indian dance, henna painting and rangoli (an ancient Indian folk art). Charlotte Symphony Orchestra joins renowned Indian composers in a closing concert at Ballantyne’s Backyard.
The festival shares such a joy-filled presentation of Indian culture, it would be easy to forget how much planning and work goes into it every year. For me, it’s worth another visit to create new memories. SP
Know before you go: On Saturday, Sept. 14, events take place at Belk Theater and on Tryon Street from noon-8 p.m. Theater performances cost $5, and tickets are available online. On Sunday, Sept. 15, the event is free at Ballantyne’s Backyard from noon-8 p.m. charlotteartsfest.com
